Aasandha to Fund Non-Emergency Ambulances Starting April 1

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced a major expansion of the Aasandha national health insurance scheme to cover ambulance services for non-emergency medical transport, effective April 1. The decision, detailed in a press briefing at the President’s Office, follows extensive consultations with health and government authorities to address a long-standing public need. President Muizzu stated the administration conducted a rigorous technical evaluation of the expansion's logistical and financial implications. He emphasized the policy responds to persistent public demand for relief from transport hardships. "Having deliberated extensively, we are introducing this change with the utmost confidence that it will bring meaningful ease and convenience to the people," he said. The new guidelines will see Aasandha finance transport for outpatient care for bedridden patients, wheelchair users, and individuals with disabilities, including those with physical impairments, psychological conditions, autism, and Down syndrome. The scheme will also cover inter-facility transfers and coordinated transport to jetties or airports during medical evacuations. Aasandha will continue to cover emergency services and the conveyance of the deceased. This policy revision complements a broader infrastructure initiative. Last month, ambulances were deployed to 56 islands, with further distributions and the procurement of advanced paramedic ambulances continuing this month. The government states that achieving universal ambulance access remains a core objective of its tenure.